MSU Greek community provides chaperoned holiday fun

With near-constant news of catastrophes worldwide, it’s not surprising that parents might be hesitant to let their children go out on Halloween. However, the Michigan State University Greek community has been helping solve that problem for over 20 years.

The event is a mix of attractions mostly geared for preschool and elementary-aged children with interactive games like spooky giant Jenga, pin the "Boo" on the ghost, jack-o’-lantern ring toss, spooky crafts, cookie decorating and bounce houses.

“This fest street carnival event provides children and families a safe trick-or-treating alternative in one of MSU's Greek neighborhoods,” said McLellan.

Apart from the interactive games, what’s new this year is the food truck lineup and live music. The four food trucks that will be featured are Coffee Rescue, From Scratch, Marconi's Pizza, and Tamale Rose.

McLellan also mentioned that Safe Halloween is one of the many philanthropic events organized by the Greek community every year.

“Every year, Greek Life decides on a non-profit organization to donate to for the Safe Halloween event. This year, for example, we decided to choose the East Lansing Public Library and every year it's something different!” said McLellan.

The funds that benefit the event are raised through event sponsorship, restaurant fundraisers, food sales at the event, and T-shirt sales from the fraternity and sorority members.

Talking about the Greek community on campus, she also mentioned that every one of the 14 sorority chapters and over 30 fraternity chapters participate in the Safe Halloween event on Thursday.

The goal of this event is to bring the community together for a safe and fun holiday event, said McLellan.

“Not only is it a great evening for trick-or-treaters, but it also provides the MSU Greek community with an opportunity to give back and make a difference.”

Face painting, costume contests, a photo booth, an inflatable moonwalk and a reading circle are also included in the list of activities scheduled for the event, and of course, MSU’s own Sparty will appear.